Make the most of May in Overland Park! Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, family-friendly fun or ways to kick off summer early, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month. Get ready to fill your weekends with sunshine and excitement.
Spend Saturday mornings browsing aisles of fresh produce, meats, cheeses and specialty products at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market. The Farmers’ Market operates from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The 2025 market season will take place at Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty Street, to allow for the construction of the Clock Tower Landing.
Robin Richerson is a master sculptor known for his dynamic and expressive works that explore form, movement and texture. His sculptures, often crafted in bronze, reflect a deep understanding of human and natural forms, bringing both abstract and figurative elements to life with bold creativity. These beautiful sculptures are contrasted with the artwork of R. Gregory Summers, an award-winning plein air painter known for capturing nature’s beauty with vibrant light and color. His dedication to painting directly from life brings authenticity and emotion to each of his landscapes. You can view this exhibit May 5-June 1, any time Tomahawk Ridge Community Center is open.
Nature Photography Contest Exhibit
Celebrate the artistry and talent of our community! Winning photos from the Nature Photography Contest will be displayed at LongHouse Visitor Center at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens from May 5 to June 21. Admire the creativity and unique perspectives captured by Arboretum visitors. Visitors may view the gallery for free inside LongHouse. Arboretum admission applies when entering the gardens.
Thursday, May 1
Wine Tasting on the Terrace – 6 p.m.
Relax and unwind as you enjoy wine and food samples from local vendors while surrounded by the beauty of the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Book your tickets to Wine Tasting on the Terrace hosted by the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Legacy of Greenery Committee – 6:30 p.m.
The Legacy of Greenery Committee develops strategies to increase, preserve and enhance the city’s tree canopy by promoting, planting and maintaining trees and shrubs in the city. The Legacy of Greenery Committee meets at City Hall on the first Thursday of every month.
Saturday, May 3
No Booze Just Cruise Car Show – 10 a.m.
The Overland Park Police Department and the Shawnee Mission School District invite you to participate in this exciting event at Oak Park Mall. Showcase your vehicles and compete in categories such as Chief’s Choice, Best Restoration and Best Classic. Visitors and participants can purchase raffle tickets to vote for their favorite vehicle, enjoy games and win prizes. All proceeds support Project Blue Eagle, the Shawnee Mission School District’s public safety program for students interested in careers as firefighters, police officers and emergency medical services.
Sunday, May 4
Soar into the sky and let your spirits fly high at Kite Fest! Join us for a breezy day of colorful kites. The event will take place in the open green space outside the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Don’t forget your kite, water bottle, bug spray and lawn chairs or picnic blankets for a day of fun, friends and family. Kites will be available for purchase. Picnics are welcome, and this event is free. Regular admission applies if you enter the gardens.
Introduction to Natural Dyes – 11 a.m.
Learn the basics of natural dyeing with plants you can grow in your own garden with Luthvarian Fiber Arts artist, Meagan Condon, at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Students will go home with a skein of yarn they dye themselves with plants from the Arboretum’s Gardens and the knowledge to start experimenting with the plants in and around their own homes. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dye on! The price per student includes all class materials. Ages 12 and up. Meet in the Education Center. $55 per person.
Overland Park Orchestra: A Star Wars Extravaganza – 3 p.m.
This concert will showcase the worldwide phenomenon of Star Wars’ captivating melodies at Blue Valley West High School. We’ll also explore the classical composers such as Holst and Puccini who inspired John Williams, highlighting their significant contributions. This promises to be an unforgettable evening of thematic music paired with stunning visuals.
Monday, May 5
Mike Mosher Memorial Ceremony – 1 p.m.
Join the Overland Park Police Department in remembering and honoring Officer Mike Mosher, who was killed in the line of duty on May 3, 2020. Police Department leadership, members of the Mosher family and close colleagues will offer remarks and honor Officer Mosher. The event will take place in the green space between the Overland Park Police Department and Municipal Court buildings, located at 12400 Foster Street.
Mayor and Council meetings are held on the first and third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall in the council chamber.
Tuesday, May 6
Sensory-Friendly Early Admission at the Farmstead – 8 a.m.
Experience Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in a calm and welcoming environment during Sensory-Friendly Early Admission Days. Designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, this event offers a supportive space to explore the farmstead with reduced crowds and minimal background noise. At 9 a.m., the farmstead opens to the general public, but attendees are welcome to stay for the remainder of the day until closing at 5 p.m. Tickets must be purchased online in advance due to limited occupancy.
Discovery Day at the Arboretum – 9 a.m.-noon
Craft time awaits on the first Tuesday of the month at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Little explorers are in for a treat as they immerse themselves in the enchanting world of nature and creativity. Each month, a new make-and-take project unfolds on Discovery Day. Crafting supplies are included, and the projects are available on a first-come, first-served basis to the first 100 participants. The first Tuesday of the month also happens to be Free Admission Day at the Arboretum, so entry into the gardens and this project are all free! The theme for May is “Nature Journal.”
Wednesday, May 7
Giggle Time Children’s Program – 10 a.m.
Join us for a delightful children’s program on the first Wednesday of the month at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. Your little ones will giggle, wiggle and have a blast with diverse performances. From music and stories to puppet shows and juggling, each month features new and exciting entertainers. Best of all, it’s a free and fun-filled time that requires no registration – just come and join in the laughter and joy! May’s Giggle Time features ReCycle with Richard Renner.
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Community Development Committee – 7 p.m.
Community Development Committee meetings are held every first Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 8
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors with Nature Storytime, presented by Stepping Stones KC. Join us for a delightful blend of music, movement, and adventure as we explore the wonders of nature at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. These gatherings are targeted toward little nature lovers, ages 1-6. The fee is per participant. Caregivers and siblings need only pay admission to the Arboretum, and take care of both fees at checkout. Registration is required. Caregiver presence is required.
Environmental Advisory Council – 6 p.m.
The Environmental Advisory Council studies environmental issues while supporting and promoting new and existing programs and developing educational programs that are beneficial to individuals and businesses in our community with respect to environmental issues. This council meets on the second Thursday at 6 p.m.
Environmental Advisory Council Officers Board – 8 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Officers Board is to be held at 8:00 p.m. in Conference Room 2 of the Myron Scafe Building, 8500 Antioch, Overland Park, KS. The purpose of the Officers Board Meeting is to plan the agenda.
Friday, May 9
Opening Reception for Richerson and Summers Exhibition – 5-7 p.m.
Meet artists Robin Richerson and R. Gregory Summers, enjoy light refreshments and experience the striking contrast between Richerson’s expressive sculptures and Summers’ vivid plein air landscapes. This unique pairing invites viewers to explore the interplay of form and light, movement and color in both natural and human expressions. The reception at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center is free and open to the public.
Saturday, May 10
Join us for an incredible journey through our enchanting woodland trails of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens as we uncover the breathtaking beauty of our native wildflowers. We’ll traverse mulched paths, conquer slopes, and hills as we make our way to the lower bluff area at Wolf Creek. With an astonishing 140 acres of woodlands boasting tens of thousands of woodland wildflowers, prepare to be awe-inspired at every turn.
Monday, May 12
Ordinance Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Ordinance Review Committee reviews ordinance amendment proposals with staff prior to consideration by the full commission. Ordinance amendments may be proposed by the City Council, the Planning Commission or City staff.
Planning Commission – 1:30 p.m.
The Planning Commission considers all applications for final development plans and plats, holds public hearings and makes recommendations for final action to the Governing Body for rezoning, special use permits and preliminary development plans. It also prepares the Comprehensive Plan and reviews the Capital Improvements Program. Planning Commission meetings are held the second Monday of every month at City Hall in the Council Chamber.
Tuesday, May 13
Neighborhood Executive Committee – 6 p.m.
The Neighborhood Executive Committee develops and monitors the progress of the neighborhood programs.
Board of Zoning Appeals – 7 p.m.
The Board of Zoning Appeals considers requests for relief from the requirements of the zoning ordinance and meets monthly, generally on the second Tuesday. The Board of Zoning Appeals meets at City Hall.
Wednesday, May 14
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Public Safety Committee – 7 p.m.
Public Safety Committee meetings are held every second Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 15
CDBG Advisory Committee – 6 p.m.
The Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee develops recommendations for use of Community Development Block Grant funds, a flexible program that provides communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community development needs. The CDBG Advisory Committee meets at the Myron E. Scafe building.
Wine Tasting on the Terrace – 6 p.m.
Relax and unwind as you enjoy wine and food samples from local vendors while surrounded by the beauty of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Book your tickets to Wine Tasting on the Terrace hosted by the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Friday, May 16
Summer Movie Nights at the Arboretum: “Wicked” – 7 p.m.
Join us for magical summer evenings under the stars at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! Gates open at 7 p.m., giving you plenty of time to grab delicious food and refreshing drinks and find the perfect spot with your chair or blanket. Enjoy yard games, explore our gift shop, and test your knowledge with movie trivia before the big screen lights up at dusk! Don’t miss out on this unforgettable outdoor movie experience—fun, food, and film all in one perfect summer night!
Saturday, May 17
Heritage Arts Showcase – 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Get ready for a day of down-home fun, creativity and culture at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Watch skilled artisans bring history to life and enjoy live traditional toe-tapping tunes and roving entertainment.
Pressed Flower Workshop – 10 a.m.
In this hands-on workshop at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, you will learn how to preserve flowers pressed flat in your own flower press you get to take home with you, made by Wichita artist Meadowlark Studios 316. We will also be making a keepsake floating frame with already dried flowers that you can customize to your desire. Bring a friend and make it a date!
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Learn the art of stained glass soldering at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! In this workshop, we will learn how to foil, solder and complete a stained glass project. Glass pieces will be pre-cut shapes from the instructor. This is a lead-free project, however, chemicals are involved. Wear comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety, as we will be using high-temperature soldering irons.
Monday, May 19
Mayor and Council meetings are held on the first and third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall in the council chamber.
Tuesday, May 20
Arboretum New Volunteer Orientation – 5:30 p.m.
This is for new volunteers wishing to serve on a regular basis. We will discuss all volunteer opportunities, collect required paperwork and introduce you to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens!
Wednesday, May 21
Finance, Administration + Economic Development Committee – 7 p.m.
Finance, Administration and Economic Development Committee business generally includes council rules, procedures and protocol, administrative services, finance, human resources, information technology and more. This committee meets on the third Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 22
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors with Nature Storytime, presented by Stepping Stones KC. Join us for a delightful blend of music, movement, and adventure as we explore the wonders of nature at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. These gatherings are targeted toward little nature lovers, ages 1-6. The fee is per participant. Caregivers and siblings need only pay admission to the Arboretum, and take care of both fees at checkout. Registration is required. Caregiver presence is required.
Music Nights at the Arboretum: Happy Together Duo – 5 p.m.
Spend your summer evenings surrounded by nature and live music at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! Enjoy extended hours in the gardens while soaking in the sounds of incredible live bands playing for two hours. Café Celeste will be open, serving up delicious food and refreshing drinks. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for unique finds! Grab a drink, find your perfect spot, and let the music set the tone for an unforgettable night under the stars!
Enjoy samplings of brews and appetizers at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Biergarten Thursdays, beginning at 6 p.m. May 22 features Torn Label Brewing Co. and Una Mas Empanadas. Register online at the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Saturday, May 24
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Learn the art of Stained glass soldering! In this workshop, we will learn how to foil, solder and complete a stained glass project. Glass pieces will be pre-cut shapes from the instructor. This is a lead-free project, however, chemicals are involved. Wear comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety, as we will be using high-temperature soldering irons.
Sunday, May 25
Outdoor Pools Opening Day – Noon-7 p.m.
Grab your goggles and sunscreen… it’s time to dive into summer! Outdoor pools are open daily starting May 25. Whether you’re all about cannonballs, conquering the slides or just floating the day away, we’ve got the perfect poolside vibe waiting for you:
- Stonegate Pool – 9701 Antioch
- Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center – 11950 Lowell
- Young’s Pool – 8421 W. 77th St.
Daily admission is $8 per person. Memberships are available for purchase at Matt Ross Community Center and Tomahawk Ridge Community Center.
Monday, May 26
City offices, including City Hall and Sanders Justice Center, will be closed for the Memorial Day holiday.
Tuesday, May 27
Parks + Recreation Advisory Council – 6:30 p.m.
The Parks & Recreation Advisory Council advises and makes recommendations to the Governing Body and staff on residential parks and recreational needs and wants. It meets the last Tuesday of every month at City Hall.
Wednesday, May 28
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Public Works Committee – 7 p.m.
Public Works Committee business generally includes streets and highways, public works facilities, traffic signals and signs, infrastructure planning, right of way management, sidewalks and bikeways, public transportation, stormwater management and traffic management systems. Public Works Committee meetings are held every fourth Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Friday, May 30
Construction Debris Drop-Off – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Disposing of old decking, fencing, lumber, railroad ties and other construction and demolition debris can be difficult. We can take some of those items off your hands. Drop these items off at Shawnee Mission west High School, 8800 W. 85th St. Residents are limited to one visit and no more than a truck and medium trailer amount of waste. Staff will be available to assist with unloading, but residents should be prepared to unload their materials at the event.
Saturday, May 31
Construction Debris Drop-Off – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Disposing of old decking, fencing, lumber, railroad ties and other construction and demolition debris can be difficult. We can take some of those items off your hands. Drop these items off at Shawnee Mission west High School, 8800 W. 85th St. Residents are limited to one visit and no more than a truck and medium trailer amount of waste. Staff will be available to assist with unloading, but residents should be prepared to unload their materials at the event.
Electronics Recycling + Shredding Event – 9 a.m.-noon
Recycle your electronics (computers, TVs, phones, rechargeable batteries, stereos, etc.), small appliances (microwaves, toasters, etc.) and most items powered with a cord or a battery at this event. Any electronic data will be erased or destroyed. Documents for shredding will also be accepted for a suggested donation of $5 per box. Documents will be shredded on-site.
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Learn the art of Stained glass soldering at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! In this workshop, we will learn how to foil, solder and complete a stained glass project. Glass pieces will be pre-cut shapes from the instructor. This is a lead-free project, however, chemicals are involved. Wear comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety, as we will be using high-temperature soldering irons.